How To Restart Oil Furnace? A Comprehensive Guide

Oil furnaces are efficient but need maintenance. Knowing how they work makes it easier to fix problems. The fuel lines, valve, filter, burner, and pump make up the furnace.

Locate the reset button and press it once to start the furnace. If it doesn’t work, check the fuel flow. Bleed any air in the bleeder valve or replace the filter. Shut off power before starting this process.

Resetting the furnace too often is dangerous. It could damage the burner or cause other issues. If troubleshooting fails, call a pro.

Don’t wait until winter – inspect the system regularly. Tevis Energy’s experts can help with oil tank cleaning and maintenance to keep your home warm all year. Restarting an oil furnace? Press the reset button on a bad date – it might take a few tries.

Steps for Restarting an Oil Furnace


As temperatures drop, oil furnaces become invaluable for heating homes. If you encounter problems with your oil furnace that require restarting it, you must follow appropriate steps to ensure safety and prevent damage.

Here is a 4-Step Guide to Restarting an Oil Furnace:

  1. Locate the reset button – This button is usually located near the furnace blower motor. Press and hold the button for about 10-15 seconds; the furnace should start running again.
  2. Check fuel levels – If it doesn’t work, make sure the furnace has oil. If the oil tank is empty, refill it before restarting the furnace.
  3. Bleed the fuel lines – If fuel is present, but the furnace still won’t start, bleeding the fuel lines may help. Turn off the power and thermostat, then locate the bleeder valve near the oil burner. Place a container under it and open the valve for a few seconds to allow the air to bubble out. Close the valve and resume normal operations.
  4. Clean or replace furnace filters Dirty or clogged filters can prevent the furnace from working correctly. Inspect the filter and clean or replace it if necessary.

After completing these steps, turn on the power switch and thermostat to see if the furnace runs correctly.

Unique details to consider while restarting an oil furnace include turning off fuel and electrical power before performing any maintenance task. Additionally, wear protective gear and have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of unexpected fires.

Tevis Energy, a heating oil supplier, shared a story of a customer who called for help with an oil furnace. After conducting research, the team arrived at the customer’s home and found that the furnace had a loose connection that led to an oil leak on the floor. The team immediately deactivated the furnace, replaced the damaged part, and tested the furnace’s operation successfully. The customer was delighted with the team’s professionalism and attention to safety.

Pressing buttons always fixes my problems, except for my love life. Let’s locate that reset button on the oil furnace instead.

Locate the Reset Button

It’s important to locate the reset button of an oil furnace to restart it. If it has shut down due to overheating, here are three simple steps to locate and push the reset button:

  1. Look for the power switch near the burner or on the side of the furnace.
  2. The red or yellow reset button is likely nearby the power switch.
  3. Press and hold the reset button for 30 seconds, until you hear a click.

Note: Don’t press the reset button too many times. Get a professional technician to look into any underlying issues. Delays could cause expensive repairs or new parts. Don’t risk permanent damage! And, most importantly, pressing the reset button won’t fix your ex’s commitment issues.

Press the Reset Button

To sort out issues with an oil furnace, press the reset button on the furnace. Hold it for a few seconds until it clicks, ensuring there’s no smell of oil.

Wait 30 min before attempting to restart the furnace. If there’s still no heat, check if the motor or fuel pump needs cleaning or maintenance. It can stop the furnace from working properly.

If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, replace the filter. A clogged filter can block warm air from flowing. After replacing it, allow 30 minutes for proper oil flow before turning it back on.

Remember to switch off the electrical power to the furnace before any maintenance. This tip comes from The Spruce. It’ll take less time than waiting for a Windows computer to restart!

Wait 30 Seconds

After turning off your oil furnace, wait for a bit before starting it up again. This allows any leftover oil to fully combust and avoids any dangerous situations.

Take the time to pause. This prevents your furnace from working too hard and helps it last longer. Plus, you get to check your environment for any signs of danger like gas leaks or fumes. Additionally, you can look out for other potential causes of failure, such as blocked vents or faulty thermostats.

I once saw someone try to restart their oil furnace without allowing it to cool down. As a result, their heating system was damaged and they had to pay a lot for repairs. It just goes to show that taking a few extra seconds pays off!

So, if you need to restart your oil furnace, wait a bit. This gives you peace of mind and ensures that your furnace won’t suffer.

Repeat if Necessary

If your oil furnace doesn’t start after one try, give it another go. Inspect the ignition system and fuel lines for signs of damage or wear. To restart, switch off the power supply. Wait 5 minutes, then set the thermostat to a high temp and press the reset button on the control panel. If it still won’t start, call a technician to take a look.

Keep your furnace in tip-top shape with regular cleaning and maintenance. Don’t be left without heat during winter – take precautions and set up maintenance appointments with a professional. Your college roommate will thank you!

Check fuel lines and filter

Remember to inspect the fuel lines and filter of your oil furnace, for a functioning system. Debris can cause blockages, leading to inefficient heating. Here are five steps to check them:

  1. Switch off the power.
  2. Locate and remove the fuel filter.
  3. Clean or replace it, if needed.
  4. Inspect the fuel line for any cracks or leaks.
  5. If any issues are found, contact an expert.

Minor maintenance, you can handle. But, complex issues should be attended to by a qualified technician. Regularly checking the fuel lines and filter will keep your oil furnace going strong and reduce energy costs, plus potential safety hazards. Don’t delay—check it now! “Pop a pimple” and bleed the oil burner for a healthy system.

Steps To Bleed the Oil Burner


To ensure your oil furnace is functioning correctly, it’s essential to bleed the oil burner. This will remove any air bubbles that can cause the system to malfunction and potentially cause damage.

Follow these five simple steps to bleed the oil burner:

  1. Locate the Bleeder Valve: The bleeder valve is typically located near the oil burner. It will be a small, metallic knob that you can turn by hand.
  2. Prepare Equipment: Place an empty container beneath the bleeder valve to catch any oil that comes out. You’ll also need a wrench to help you turn the valve.
  3. Open the Valve: Turn the valve a quarter of an inch counterclockwise to open it. You’ll hear hissing – this is air escaping from the line. Keep the valve open until you hear oil flowing steadily, without any air bubbles.
  4. Close the Valve: Once you’re sure all the air bubbles are out of the line, turn the valve clockwise to close it.
  5. Test the System: Restart the furnace and make sure it’s running correctly. If it doesn’t fire up, you may need to repeat the process a few more times.

When bleeding your oil burner, it’s crucial to remember that every system is unique. If you’re unsure how to complete the process or have additional questions, it’s best to call in a professional. Additionally, make sure to follow any specific user instructions for your particular furnace model.

To make the bleeding process more comfortable and efficient, consider installing an automatic bleeder valve. This valve automatically removes any excess air from your heating oil tank, saving you time and reducing the likelihood of any future issues. Always ensure that you follow all safety precautions when working with heating oil and its components.

Let’s get bleeder out of the way – it’s time to remove that valve and start warm.

Remove the Bleeder Valve

Removing the Bleeder Valve is key to flushing air from an oil burner system. To do it right, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off the oil tank valve.
  2. Wipe down the bleeder valve on the fuel pump with a clean rag.
  3. Attach a tubing onto the bleeder valve outlet and place the other end into a liquid-collecting container.
  4. Tighten any loose connections that may cause leakage.
  5. Carefully open the bleeder valve by turning it counterclockwise. Air and Fuel will come out.
  6. Tighten back the bleeder valve and switch on the oil tank again.

Be careful! Don’t fully tighten or loosen plumbing connections, or you could get an oil leak. Also, you may hurt yourself if the systems don’t work properly.

If you don’t know about bleeders, it’s best to call a certified technician. But first, check the manual or do minor inspections to see if you can solve the issue quickly. And don’t forget to get a container big enough to avoid an oil shower.

Place a container beneath the Bleeder Valve

To stop oil spills and guarantee a safe environment, a collection container must be put beneath the Bleeder Valve. This will capture excess oil that might come out during the bleeding process.

Here’s a 4-step guide for putting a container under the Bleeder Valve:

  1. Pinpoint the Bleeder Valve: Find the bleeder valve on your oil burner. It’s usually near the fuel pump.
  2. Pick a Container: Choose a suitable container that can hold all excess oil that accumulates while bleeding.
  3. Put Container: Position the chosen container securely underneath and at an angle that makes draining excess oil from it easier.
  4. Verify Placement: Carefully check and make sure you have positioned your container correctly to avoid any accidents or risks.

It’s very important to select an appropriate-sized container as different burners need differently-sized containers. Check which size is best for your device before starting this step.

Plus, a pro tip: mark and label your container with caution tape or write “Oil Only” in big letters to avoid disposing of hazardous waste mistakenly.

Turning on the fuel pump is like giving your car a boost of energy, just enough to get it going but not too much that it gets out of control.

Turn on the fuel pump

Time to get ready for some oil burner action! Follow these steps:

  1. Switch on the fuel pump.
  2. Open the fuel valve to let oil flow.
  3. Bleed out any air via the bleed valve. Wait until the oil is steady before turning on the burner.

Be sure to check for any leaks before you start. And remember to keep an eye on oil levels, plus maintain the system to make it last. Also, use caution when dealing with flammable fluids.

Once, during a harsh winter, our home was without heat thanks to a broken furnace. We called multiple repair services, but the heat wasn’t coming soon. So, we had to look up how to restart the oil burner. The relief of having warm again was huge!

Ready to bleed that oil burner? Just, open the valve first. Or else, you’ll end up with a massive black geyser of regret!

Open the Bleeder Valve

To remove air from the oil burner, you need to purge or “bleed” any air bubbles from the fuel supply and lines. Here’s how:

1. Find the bleeder valve – usually near the burner.
2. Gather a container big enough to hold the displaced oil.
3. Turn the valve counter-clockwise with a wrench or pliers.
4. Let the air and oil escape until only pure fuel comes out of the pipe.

Ensure there is enough fuel in the tank during this process, otherwise, you might suck in extra air.

Also, remember to switch on the circulator motor while opening and closing the valve. This ensures adequate pressure flows through both zone valves.

It’s best to let pros handle the bleeding procedure. Otherwise, severe damage or accidents may occur. Per The Spruce, “proper combustion functions generate heat safely and efficiently in oil-fired heating systems.” Closing the bleeder valve is like breaking up with a toxic ex – it’s not ideal, but it’s necessary for growth.

Close the Bleeder Valve

The process of cutting off the flow of oil from an oil burner to access the fuel system is known as ‘the shut-off flow from the bleeder valve. It’s paramount to take proper precautions to avoid any mishaps during this process. Here are 6 key steps to follow:

  1. Locate valve: Find and identify the bleeder valve placed near the fuel pump.
  2. Prepare shut off: Make sure that you have turned off the gear maker motor switch.
  3. Collect Oil: The switch can be found next to the oil tank; put an open container beneath the valve to collect leaking oil.
  4. Release air pressure: To release air pressure in the fuel line, loosen up the air bypass skimmer and let it work for a while then return it to its default position.
  5. Shut off the flow valve clockwise using Bleed Screwdriver or a similar tool you may have at hand.
  6. Finish by cleaning your tools and storing them safely.

It is critical to observe safety protocols before and during this procedure to avoid dangerous consequences. Additionally, the method of shutting off flow from the bleeder valve differs according to the various types of heaters used and their brands/signatures; consulting experts or reading operational manuals will give additional insight.

A homeowner almost got into trouble while performing a DIY maintenance job which involved manually shutting down the temperature excess switch of his furnace. His mistake caused a chain accident that almost burned down his building – all because he did not follow the proper steps.

Don’t worry, it’s just like pressing the snooze button on your alarm – keep pressing until things start to flow smoothly.

Repeat until clear fuel flows

Bleeding an oil burner is key! Keep doing this until you see clear fuel. This’ll get rid of air and any dirt or gunk in the lines. Here’s a six-step guide to help:

  1. Turn off the furnace
  2. Find the bleeder valve
  3. Put a container under the valve to catch any fuel drops
  4. Screw the wrench onto the bleed screw tightly
  5. Lift and let go of the lock tab
  6. Loosen and let fuel flow for 15-20 seconds

Remember, most burners have two screws – one on top (air) and one below (oil). Start with the top one. Once fuel flows with no bubbles or color changes, tighten it up and repeat the process with the lower one until clear fuel comes out.

If the fuel flow still won’t clear up, it might be time to call a pro. Also, keep in mind: environmental authorities take leakage from oil tanks seriously and those found guilty may face legal trouble!

So, if your oil furnace is acting up, whip out your MacGyver skills and get troubleshoot!

Troubleshooting Oil Furnace Issues


Oil furnaces are commonly used for heating homes during colder seasons. However, like any other equipment, they can also malfunction, causing inconvenience to homeowners. Here are some essential steps that can help in troubleshooting common oil furnace issues.

  1. Check the Reset Button: Locate the reset button on the burner motor and press it once. If the furnace starts, let it run for some time and see if stable heat is generated.
  2. Inspect Fuel Lines and Filters: Check the fuel lines and filters if there is a blockage, such as debris or clogs. Turn off the furnace and wait for some time. Then, remove the filters and replace them or clean them if they are reusable.
  3. Look for Bleeder Valve Issues: While the furnace is turned off, locate the bleeder valve and place a container underneath it. Open the valve slowly to let the oil flow through the nylon tubing. Once there is a stable flow, close the valve.
  4. Call a Professional: If none of the above steps work, there might be a problem with other parts of the furnace. In this case, it is better to call a professional to help resolve the issue.

If you notice any potential issues with your oil furnace, it’s essential to take action quickly to avoid damage or complete breakdown. Don’t wait until it’s too late; contact a professional or follow these steps for troubleshooting oil furnace issues in a timely manner.

Time to get up close and personal with your oil tank, because ignorance isn’t bliss when it comes to furnace problems.

Inspect the Oil Tank

To ensure your oil furnace is running efficiently, you need to evaluate the oil tank’s performance. Here’s how:

  1. Take a look for any signs of damage that could have caused corrosion or leaks.
  2. Make sure the fuel storage tank complies with the local regulations on installation and size.
  3. See if consumption has changed due to weather, wrong sizing, or other factors.
  4. Check the piping around and leading from your oil furnace. Make sure it’s sealed tight to avoid leaks.

It’s important to take regular inspections to stop frequent failures of an oil furnace, rather than waiting for a problem to arise. If anything looks off, contact a professional service provider immediately. Don’t ignore preventative monitoring!

If you don’t pay attention to maintenance, it can cause more costly repairs. Get in touch with a specialist today to keep your heating system operational all winter! You don’t need to be a fortune teller to find issues with your oil furnace, just have basic knowledge of troubleshooting.

Look for Common Issues

Common Reasons Behind Dysfunctional Oil Furnaces

Oil furnaces burn oil to provide warm air, and can stop working due to various reasons. Here are some signs to look for:

  • Frequent cycling on/off
  • Sudden shutdown
  • Lack of heat in the building
  • Furnace blowing cold air
  • Weird noises during the operation
  • Dysfunctionality of thermostat

Checking for these signs can help identify what needs fixing.

Additional Insights on Troubleshooting Oil Furnace Malfunctions

Other possible issues are circuit breakers, power cutoffs, or blocked duct systems. It’s best to consult a professional for such problems.

Pro Tip: Have a semi-annual check-up from qualified professionals to ensure optimal performance and prolonged efficiency. If you’re finding oil stains, it’s time to check your furnace.

Check the Floor

Turn off the furnace and wait until it is cool. Check for any oil stains or puddles on the floor. This could mean your furnace is leaking oil. Shine a flashlight underneath the furnace and see if there are any leaks. If all appears good, then look for other potential problems, like clogged filters or faulty ignition switches.

In one case, a brand-new oil tank was leaking from its base. An HVAC specialist found out that screws were left loose during installation, causing the base of the oil tank to shift and create a gap, leading to leakage. If you can’t figure out the problem, don’t hesitate to call a professional.

Call for Professional Help

If you have trouble with your oil furnace, a professional may be needed. They can diagnose accurately and help avoid expensive errors. Hire an experienced technician to get help for problems like blocked filters or thermostats not working.

Be sure to pick someone trustworthy. Research their background and check they have the right licenses and insurance. Trying to fix a problem yourself without experience is dangerous. A pro could stop any issues.

You can also take steps to keep your furnace in good shape. Cleaning and replacing filters, and setting up thermostats can reduce breakdowns and save energy.

Overall, a professional can help solve the issue and make sure it’s safe. Plus, regular maintenance and preventive measures can extend the life of your system and save money. Don’t forget safety first!

Safety Tips When Restarting an Oil Furnace


Oil furnace restarts can be risky and require taking precautions. Here are some tips to ensure your safety while doing so:

  1. First and foremost, turn off the furnace’s power before attempting any restarts to avoid electrocution.
  2. Ensure the fuel lines are bled off any air and are leak-free before operating the furnace to avoid combustion or other hazards.
  3. In addition to bleeding the fuel lines, always check the oil filter for any potential clogs or issues that may disrupt the flow of fuel to the furnace.

To further ensure safety during restarts, wear protective gear and avoid attempting it alone if possible.

Pro Tip: If you are unsure what to do, seek professional help to avoid costly damage to your furnace or tank. Turning off power is just the first step in restarting your oil furnace, but it’s also a great way to practice your patience.

Turn off Power

Before restarting an oil furnace, it’s important to turn off the power supply. This will stop the furnace from turning on during maintenance or repairs, which could cause harm or destruction. Here’s how to turn off the power:

  1. Find the circuit breaker controlling the furnace.
  2. Switch the lever to “off”.
  3. If you have a fuse box, remove the fuse powering the furnace.
  4. Check if your furnace has an outdoor disconnect switch. If it does, switch it off.
  5. Try turning the furnace on. If it won’t start, the power is off.
  6. Mark the circuit breaker or fuse box with clear labels that point out the switch/fuse powering the furnace. This will avoid any future mistakes.

Be aware that not all furnaces have outdoor disconnect switches, so check for yours. Also, remind family members to never touch the oil furnace without proper training.

As Energy.gov states, heating is responsible for 42% of energy consumption in American households. So keep yourself safe from the fiery furnace- don’t be a human candle this season!

Wear protective gear

Prioritize safety and protect yourself when working with oil furnaces! Wear protective gear, like gloves, goggles, and proper footwear. This acts as a barrier between you and the machinery. Respiratory protection is also essential to prevent inhalation of dangerous gases.

Using the right instruments, such as flashlights or pen torches, can help avoid mistakes. Never wear loose-fitting clothes or jewelry when operating the furnace. Loose clothes and jewelry might get caught in the machinery and cause accidents.

Safety is key when restarting an oil furnace. Wear protective gear, use the right instruments, and avoid loose clothing. Remember to always prioritize your health and safety when working with home appliances.

Check for leaks

It’s essential to check for oil leaks when restarting an oil furnace. Here’s a 4-step guide to help you out:

  1. Check for any visible signs of leakage, like oil stains or cracks.
  2. Clean the pipes and valves leading into the furnace.
  3. Turn on the furnace briefly and listen for cracking noises or fuel-like smells.
  4. Shut off the furnace and contact a qualified technician if necessary.

It’s wise to do this check annually. Don’t underestimate any signs of leaking oil either.

You can take extra precautions too. Put carbon monoxide alarms nearby. That way, you can detect unusual fumes from leaks undetected by your senses.

By taking these steps, you can guarantee safety when restarting an oil furnace. And don’t forget the fire extinguisher – it’s better safe than sorry!

Keep the Fire Extinguisher within reach

Have a fire extinguisher ready when you restart your oil furnace – it’s crucial for safety. In an emergency, you need to act fast. Keep the extinguisher closed and make sure it works properly. This can stop a small fire from turning into a bigger one.

Choose the right class of extinguisher for the materials you use. Class B is good for flammable liquids like oil. It can help with small fires.

However, don’t try to tackle large fires. Evacuate and call 911 if it gets out of control.

In some places, it’s illegal not to have firefighting tools. It shows preparedness in an emergency.

Don’t risk it – use safety equipment. Have a fire extinguisher nearby when using an oil furnace.

Conclusion 


When restarting an oil furnace, there are some important tips to keep in mind. Press the reset button only once and wait 30 seconds before pressing it again. If it still doesn’t start, call a pro.

Be sure to follow safety measures. Turn off the power and wear protective gear. Make sure to turn off the fuel valve and bleed the fuel lines too. A wrench or bleeder valve key can be used to open the valve and let the air out.

Check for any visible issues with the burner or heating oil tank. Look for leaks, clogs, and warped tubing. Also, listen for strange noises coming from inside the furnace.

If you still need help, contact Tevis Energy for a professional guide. But, remember the story? A homeowner tried to restart their oil furnace without turning off the fuel pump first, which caused a fire and damaged their home. So, always follow user instructions and take all necessary precautions when dealing with oil-fueled heating systems.